Sei sulla pagina 1di 2

W RITE AN EFFECTIVE COVER LETTER/LETTER OF INTENT

Cover letters (also known as letters of intent) are a critical component of a successful externship,
internship or job search. They introduce your resume to an employer and are often the first thing
they read. It is essential that your cover letter reflects your experience and skills as they relate to the
position you are applying for. Highlight what you have to offer the employer in a concise,
professional format while also adding creativity, showing enthusiasm, and generating further
interest in you as a candidate.

General Tips
Research the company and study the position description.
Focus on the needs of the company instead of your own needs
and wants.
Use specific examples and be personable.
Dont simply restate your resume expand on it.
If there are any required qualifications for the positions that arent
included in your resume, address them in your cover letter.

Format
One page (3-4 paragraphs), 12 pt. font, 1 - .5 borders.
Always write in a professional and formal manner no slang or
abbreviations.
Print your cover letter on the same paper as your resume.
Be sure to have someone proofread your cover letter before sending it.
Use the same heading as your resume including your contact information.
You may use a similar cover letter for multiple jobs, however you must change each letter to
match the position for which you are applying.

Addressing the Letter


Address cover letters to a specific person rather than a department or a generic title. Be sure
to spell the name(s) correctly. If its not possible, then address the letter to what the
advertisement states (i.e., Hospital Manager, Selection Committee, etc.).
Make sure you know the gender of the person you are addressing the letter to. If youre not
sure, use the full name. If addressing the letter to a woman and you are not sure of marital
status, use Ms.
First M. Last
Street address Phone number
City, State Zip Email address

Date

Contact Person, Title


Clinic/Hospital/Organization
Street Address
City, State Zip

Dear (Contact Name):

FIRST PARAGRAPH: State the reason why you are writing and the specific position you are applying
for. Indicate how you learned about the employer and/or opening, and mention the name of any
referring person. Explain briefly why you want to work for this practice/hospital/organization (based
on your knowledge/research) and why you are a good fit for the position.

BODY OF THE LETTER (usually two paragraphs): Briefly explain your background (education/
experience/leadership) and why you are interested and qualified (knowledge and skills). Summarize
some of your strongest qualifications as they relate to the position/position description (be specific
and heartfelt). State clearly why you are the best candidate.

CLOSING PARAGRAPH: Explain what you would gain and how you could be an asset to the
position/organization. State that you look forward to an interview and/or talking to someone in
more detail about the position and your qualifications. End the letter with an appropriate closing
such as Thank you for your time and consideration or Thank you for giving my application full
consideration.

Sincerely or Best regards,

{Signature}

Your name (typed)

Potrebbero piacerti anche